GE Oven F2, F3 Error or Not Heating Fix: Sensor (#WB21X22134) & Igniter (#WB13K21)
Quick Answer: The F2 (Over-Temperature) or F3 (Open Oven Sensor) error code on a GE oven indicates a failed Temperature Probe (#WB21X22134 / #WB23T10015). On GE gas ovens that fail to heat or smell faintly of gas without lighting, 95% of cases are solved by replacing the Glow Bar Igniter (#WB13K21).
⚠️ Why Your GE Gas Oven Igniter Glows Orange But Still Needs Replacing: Homeowners see the igniter (#WB13K21) glowing bright orange and assume it works! In reality, the gas safety valve only opens when the igniter draws at least 3.2 Amps of current. An aging igniter glows orange at 2.6 Amps—too weak to open the gas valve!
#1 Most Common Fix: GE OEM Gas Oven Glow Bar Igniter
Official OEM Part Number: #WB13K21
⏱️ Install Time: 15 Minutes (2 wingnuts inside oven bottom) | 💰 Avg Cost: $21.99 – $32.00
Step 1: Free 2-Minute Reset & Test
- Turn off the circuit breaker to the GE range for 5 minutes to clear temporary F2 or F3 fault codes.
- Locate the pencil-shaped metal temperature probe in the back upper corner inside the oven: unscrew its 2 mounting screws and make sure the plastic wire plug behind the wall isn't melted.
- If a gas oven takes more than 60 seconds to light the flame after turning on Bake, replace the Igniter (#WB13K21).
Step 2: Symptom & Part Number Lookup Table
| Symptom | Required OEM Part | Difficulty & Cost | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| GE Gas Oven won't heat up, takes forever to preheat, or igniter glows without lighting flame Cause: Weakened Silicon Nitride / Carbide Glow Bar Igniter | GE Oven Glow Bar Igniter (Universal Fit)#WB13K21 | Easy DIY (15 min) Est: $23.99 | Check Price on Amazon → |
| Display beeps and flashes F3, F30, F31, or F2 error code Cause: Open or shorted Oven Temperature RTD Sensor | GE Oven Temperature Sensor Probe#WB21X22134 | Very Easy DIY (10 min) Est: $17.50 | Check Price on Amazon → |
| GE Electric Oven won't heat on Bake (Broil still works at the top) Cause: Burned out Lower Bake Heating Element | GE Electric Range Bake Element#WB44T10010 | Easy DIY (10 min, 2 screws) Est: $27.99 | Check Price on Amazon → |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does GE igniter #WB13K21 replace WB13T10045 and Norton 501a?
Yes! #WB13K21 is the universal OEM standard replacement for WB13T10045, WB13X25263, and AP3202322 across GE, Hotpoint, Samsung, and Kenmore gas ranges.